Report on the Physical Properties and Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (Chapter 3)-Report on the Physical Properties and Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (Chapter 3)(PDF)

Report on the Physical Properties and Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (Chapter 3)(PDF)

Pdf Summary

ACI 544.5R-10, published in March 2010 by the American Concrete Institute, examines the physical properties and durability of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC). The document provides guidance for designing and evaluating the effectiveness of fibers in concrete mixtures, focusing on the material's short-term and long-term benefits. The report is divided into three main sections, covering the physical properties of FRC, areas where fibers enhance concrete durability, and how these materials bolster durability in practical applications.<br /><br />FRC's physical properties include considerations of electrical, magnetic, and thermal attributes, while rheological properties affect fiber dispersion and shrinkage mitigation. Creep mechanisms, where concrete strain increases under constant stress, are also covered. The document outlines various tests for evaluating these properties, though it notes there are limitations in current standards due to the variety of conditions and properties assessed.<br /><br />Durability benefits of fibers span a broad range, from reducing plastic and restrained shrinkage cracking to enhancing corrosion resistance and freeze-thaw resilience. Fibers can also affect the concrete's permeability, allowing for performance-based specifications that make them suitable for demanding applications like tunnel linings and liquid storage tanks. The addition of fibers impacts FRC's response to extreme temperatures and fire, mitigating issues like embrittlement and degradation due to alkali reactions. <br /><br />Lastly, the report provides applications of FRC that demonstrate these durability benefits in practice. Steel, synthetic, glass, and cellulose fibers introduce different attributes to concrete mixtures, allowing for tailored solutions in construction projects that prioritize long-lasting and sustainable material performance. This breadth of research emphasizes that FRC is a viable option for improving concrete durability and performance in contemporary construction.

Keywords

fiber-reinforced concrete

physical properties

durability

concrete mixtures

shrinkage mitigation

corrosion resistance

freeze-thaw resilience

permeability

extreme temperatures

construction applications